Aino Nebel
Aino Nebel is an artist and ceramicist living and working in Germany. In her work she visualizes the aesthetics of coming into existence, and the process of change. The objects are fired multiple times, sometimes overheating. Deformations are accepted and desired. Failed objects and broken fragments become embedded as layers of time.
If you had access to all the powers, how would you improve the world?
It is presumptuous to assume that someone should have all the powers. We have to except that we are small and practice humility, that would be quite something.
What are the biggest sustainability challenges in your work and how are you addressing them?
Art has always been sustainable – in a mental way.
Which conscious lifestyle choices are you making? and are you considering any new ones?
My choice was to live as an artist. that’s all.
What have you rebelled against in the past, and what are you rebelling against now?
I’m not a rebel. I think that I am a radical person, but not rebellious. I’m longing for silence. I want to do my work, that’s all. That’s a lot.
Do you think dishware can still be improved? If yes, in what way?
A good plate is a good plate. When you see stuff from ages ago, it is really reliable. Still, each period of time has to find its own way and its own expression.
What was the inspiration for your Steinbeisser pieces?
I tried to find a visual expression for the physical and sensual feeling of well-being: delight and relish. I wanted to connect bed and table, sleeping and eating as essential needs, which get transformed and cultivated as moments of pleasure.
Describe your work in 3 words!
Love. Devotion. Surrender.
What kind of materials do you use and where do you get them from?
I work mainly with porcelain, in whatever condition it comes to my hands. To bring porcelain into a shape, I like to work with supporting materials which burn out while firing. Here I love to use materials which already have a past life, for instance worn clothes of me or withered plants.
What has been your favorite dinner experience?
When very good food meets very good conversation – rarely enough!
What excites you about tomorrow?
That we never know how it will be.
Which are your 3 favorite pieces on Jouw…?
The Moment Cutlery and Plates by Joo Hyung Park, and the Little Driftwood Spoon by Stuart Cairns.